DMK finalises seat deal with CPI, allots 5 constituencies for Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections

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Chennai: The DMK has formalised its seat-sharing agreement with the Communist Party of India (CPI), allotting five constituencies to the Left party within the ruling alliance for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The agreement was signed in the presence of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and CPI State Secretary M. Veerapandian.

One seat less than previous election

The CPI has been allocated five seats for the 2026 polls, which is one less than the six constituencies it contested in the 2021 Assembly elections. The reduction comes despite the party’s initial demand for a higher number of seats compared to the previous election.

Speaking after the agreement was signed, CPI State Secretary M. Veerapandian explained the party’s decision to accept a reduced allocation. “The primary objective of the CPI in this election is to defeat the BJP and its alliance. Chief Minister Stalin has launched a major battle to achieve this end. At this juncture, it is imperative that we stand in solidarity with him,” he stated.

Veerapandian emphasised that the CPI has always been a party that raises its voice on behalf of people’s issues. “Regardless of fluctuations in the number of our legislative assembly members, we Communists have never compromised on our principles or rights. Our demand for representation in the Assembly stems from the conviction that the voice of the working class must resonate within that legislative forum. It is upon this fundamental basis that we forge our alliances,” he added.

Confirmed seat allocations in DMK alliance

As of now, within the DMK-led alliance, several parties have finalised their seat allocations. The Congress will contest in 28 constituencies, the CPI in five, the MDMK in four, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) in two, and the Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK) in two seats.

Constituencies have yet to be allotted to the DMDK, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), and the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Negotiations with these remaining alliance partners are expected to continue in the coming days as the DMK works to finalise its coalition ahead of the election notification.